Chicory for Babies
Complete guide on how to prepare and serve chicory to your baby, by age.
Safety Information
How to Serve Chicory to a 6–9 Months Old
How to Cut
For babies 6-9 months, chicory should be cooked until very soft—steamed or sautéed is best. Remove any tough or stringy outer leaves, and cut the inner leaves and stems into small, manageable pieces (about 2-3 cm / ¾-1 inch). Alternatively, mash or finely chop and mix into a smooth puree, which is easier for babies new to solids to handle. Always serve chicory as part of a balanced meal, and let baby self-feed with their hands or pre-loaded spoon to help develop feeding skills.
Serving Instructions
At this age, serve 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 g or 0.5-1 oz) of soft, well-cooked chicory as part of a meal. Combine with iron-rich foods like pureed beans, lentils or meats, and offer a source of healthy fat (ex: avocado, olive oil) for balanced nutrition. Serve with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance iron absorption. Always introduce new foods individually and watch for any reactions.
How to Serve Chicory to a 9–18 Months Old
How to Cut
At 9-18 months, continue serving chicory cooked until soft. You can chop it into bite-sized pieces (about 1 cm / ½ inch) or offer larger, easy-to-hold pieces for practice with finger foods. Be mindful of stringy sections—remove any tough fibers that could be difficult to chew. Mashed chicory mixed with other soft vegetables or grains also works well at this stage. Always supervise meals and encourage self-feeding to support independence.
Serving Instructions
Serve 2-4 tablespoons (30-60 g or 1-2 oz) of soft, well-cooked chicory as part of a balanced meal. Mix with grains, other vegetables or proteins, and ensure a source of healthy fat. This age group benefits from combinations that promote iron and vitamin C absorption. Continue offering chicory regularly to help baby accept new flavors and textures.
How to Serve Chicory to a 18+ Months Old
How to Cut
From 18 months, most toddlers can handle slightly firmer, still-cooked chicory, cut into small pieces or strips. Continue to avoid stringy or tough parts. You can serve chicory as finger food, in salads, or gently sautéed with a drizzle of safe oil. Aim for pieces no larger than 2 cm to minimize any choking risk. Encourage your child’s use of utensils and always supervise during meals.
Serving Instructions
Serve 4 tablespoons or more (60+ g or 2+ oz) of cooked or raw (if accepted) chicory as part of lunch or dinner. Include in salads, mix with other veggies, or sauté lightly. Continue to pair with iron-rich and vitamin C sources for best nutrition. Encourage self-feeding and utensil use, always supervising to ensure safe eating.
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